ARTHRITIS

WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?

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Arthritis of the foot, also known as foot arthritis, refers to inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the foot. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the foot, with the most common ones being osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gouty arthritis.

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1. Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of arthritis and is typically caused by the wear and tear of the joint cartilage over time. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, including those in the foot. It often leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the affected joints.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. It can cause inflammation, pain, swelling, and deformity in the joints, including those in the foot.

3. Gouty Arthritis: Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe attacks of pain, redness, and swelling. It commonly affects the big toe joint but can also affect other joints in the foot.

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What are the symptoms of Arthritis?

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Symptoms of arthritis can include:

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• Pain, which may be worse with activity or after periods of rest.

• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

• Swelling and tenderness around the affected joints.

• Reduced range of motion and difficulty moving the foot.

• Deformities or changes in the shape of the foot joints.

• Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot.

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It's important to note that the severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person and depending on the extent of the Arthritis. If you experience symptoms, it's recommended to consult a medical professional, such as a podiatrist, for proper diagnosis and guidance on appropriate treatment measures.

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How can you treat Arthritis?​

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Treatment for medial arch strain typically involves:

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1. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.

2. Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches can help improve joint mobility, strengthen the muscles supporting the foot, and alleviate pain.

3. Orthotics and Footwear: Custom orthotic devices or specially designed footwear can provide support and cushioning to the affected joints, reducing pain and improving function.

4. Assistive Devices: Canes, crutches, or braces may be recommended to help offload weight from the affected foot and reduce stress on the joints.

5. Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation in the affected joints.

6. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in low-impact activities can help reduce stress on the joints.

7. Surgical Interventions: In severe cases where conservative measures fail, surgical options like joint fusion or joint replacement may be considered.

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It's important to consult a healthcare professional such as a Rheumatologist, or registered podiatrist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan if you suspect Arthritis or are experiencing symptoms related to it.